AN 18-year-old from Co Down has died a week after falling from a building in a 'free-running' accident.
Cameron Baxter from Castlewellan passed away on Tuesday from serious injuries suffered in a fall in Newcastle.
It is understood the former Down High School pupil, whose sister Ashleigh is an Irish rugby international, had been jumping from a balcony at the Greenhill YMCA National Outdoor Centre.
His father Kenny, who is the Greenhill YMCA centre director, had appealed for prayers and support as his son spent the last week in a coma at the Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast.
It is believed Cameron may have been practising free-running or parkour, which involves negotiating obstacles at speed by running, jumping and climbing.
On Tuesday, Mr Baxter wrote on social media of the family's devastating loss.
"Sadly our beautiful son and brother Cameron passed away this afternoon," he said.
Just two days earlier he had described how Cameron had "been in a deep coma for a week following a tragic accident and he is now entering very critical days".
"His two big sisters and his mum and me are distraught. We are all gaining great strength from the many prayers and messages we have already received."
Prayers were also said across YMCAs on Monday as members came together for the teenager, who was also a volunteer with the organisation in Newcastle.
In a message, the Greenhill YMCA yesterday said it would remain closed until next week following the "untimely death of our friend and colleague".
The young man was also remembered at a special assembly at Down High yesterday.
"The school is very saddened to learn of the tragic death of Cameron Baxter who left school in June," it said.
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to Cameron’s family and friends at this very difficult time.
"The school held a special assembly this morning to remember Cameron and a book of condolence has been opened.
"Pupils who left school last year are very welcome to return to school to sign the book of condolence and share their memories of Cameron."
Sinn Féin councillor Willie Clarke, who knows Kenny Baxter, said his "heart goes out to the family".
"The whole community is just devastated by the death of Cameron," he said.
"They are a very strong family, very, very close, with a great faith. The thoughts and prayers of the whole community go out to them."
Friends have also been paying their own tributes to the young man, who was described as someone who always had a "smile on your face".
One pal wrote on Facebook: "Rest in peace Cameron, it was a pleasure and a joy to work with you. You touched us all in so many special ways and you will never ever be forgotten."
Another said: "RIP Cameron buddy. You will be greatly missed mate. Always a smile on your face and chatted away. Heaven has gained another angel far too soon".
Other tributes said: "I will always remember you in my heart and in my mind. One thing I know is you will always be watching over me and everyone else. Sleep tight buddy."
Ulster Rugby and Belfast Harlequins Women's Rugby Club also expressed their condolences to Cameron's sister Ashleigh, who is an Ulster and Ireland women's player.
